Anything relating to the city is valuable to us. While we treasure finding significant items and historical documents relating to the city, the Commission is looking for all manner of items such as photos, brochures, political signs and anything else related to the city.

These items must be preserved for future generations. Unfortunately, many items are being thrown out by people who do not realize their historical value.

Don't throw it out. Donate it to the Hamtramck Historical Commission so it can go into our permanent archives and be placed on display.

And don't assume that just because the old picture you have is ragged or the tattered booklet that has no covers is not historically valuable.

Items like that are treasured by the Historical Commission, too. Donate them to the Commission. Here is how: write to Greg Kowalski, chairman of the Hamtramck Historical Commission at 11638 Moran, Hamtramck, Mich. 48212. Or call him at (248) 901-2570 (days) or (313) 893-5027 (evenings and weekends).

Correspondence also can be addressed to the Commission c/o Mayor's Office, City Hall, 3401 Evaline, Hamtramck, Mich. 48212. Or call Commissioners Cynthia Cervenak at (313) 365-6066.

Your comments are welcome and encouraged. Remember, we are in a race against time. With each year, more items relating to Hamtramck are lost forever.

The Email address for the Historical Commission is gkowalski@ameritech.net.